Our oral cavity requires as much care as the rest of our body. We use our teeth to break down the food we eat and our tongue is a hyper-sensitive sensory mechanism that helps us taste every morsel we ingest. Many people focus on the superficial needs of their mouth without fully understanding that this structure is also a breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained properly. To maintain your oral health, it would be best if you visit Dr. Alan Gurman, your dentist serving Thornton CO, regularly for plaque debridement and check-ups.
Brushing and flossing regularly is essential to keep the bad bacteria at bay. Make sure you incorporate this into your daily lifestyle, especially if you are fond of beverages that can stain the teeth. Drinking coffee, tea and red wine or smoking increases your risk of stains that will require bleaching treatments to resolve. It is imperative that you maintain your dental hygiene by meticulously brushing your teeth.
Plaque build-up can lead to tooth loss. When the soft, cheese-like matter hardens, it will turn into calcular deposits. This shell-like deposit can seep into the free gingival and give bacteria an entry point to subgingival structures like your periodontal ligament or roots. Once the bacteria have settled down in the area, the colonization will lead to periodontal problems.
An infected pulp chamber will require your dentist to perform root canal treatment. If it is left untreated, an abscess could develop. This will cause extreme discomfort because it involves the alveolar bone and the supporting structures. Your immune system will try to combat the foreign organisms and this will cause an inflammatory response. The patient will notice that the area around the tooth is swollen. There will usually be discomfort in the area when the specific tooth is used to chew food.
If this is not resolved, the bacteria may travel to the nervous tissue, maxillary sinus and in severe cases, even the brain. Your oral cavity is made up of vital tissue. Although we have an immune system that fights infections, we are not invincible. Ask your dentist for tips on how to maintain excellent dental hygiene.
To schedule your next exam, call Alpine Dental Center at 303.428.6367 today!